Kukla's Korner Hockey

General Manager Steve Tambellini announced today the Edmonton Oilers have signed right-winger Nail Yakupov to a three-year entry level contract.

Steve Tambellini says, “We’re very happy to sign Nail to a three-year contract. He’s an extremely talented and passionate young man who we feel will be an integral part of our team for many years to come.”

Yakupov, who was selected 1st overall in the 2012 NHL Entry Draft, played in 42 games last season for the Sarnia Sting collecting 69 points (31G, 38A).

In 2010-11, the 5’11”, 190-pound right-winger recorded 101 points (49G, 52A) in 65 games with Sarnia. That year he was named the OHL Rookie of the Month three times as well as the OHL Rookie of the Year and BMO Rookie of the Year in the CHL.